Evening Practice at the Episcopal Church of the Ascension

– A Spring 2017 "Deepening Our Practice" Group for Experienced Practitioners

Five Sunday sessions, 1:30 to 4 pm. Three sessions will be held in Takoma Park, Maryland (April 9, May 21, and June 25), and two in Columbia, Maryland (April 30 and June 4).

Thich Nhat Hanh, who originated the term “Engaged Buddhism” in the 1950s, explained in a 2008 Dharma talk what the term means to him:

The first meaning of Engaged Buddhism is the kind of Buddhism that is present in every moment of our daily life. While you brush your teeth, Buddhism should be there. While you drive your car, Buddhism should be there. While you are walking in the supermarket, Buddhism should be there — so that you know what to buy and what not to buy!

Also, Engaged Buddhism is the kind of wisdom that responds to anything that happens in the here and the now — global warming, climate change, the destruction of the ecosystem, the lack of communication, war, conflict, suicide, divorce. As a mindfulness practitioner, we have to be aware of what is going on in our body, our feelings, our emotions, and our environment. That is Engaged Buddhism. Engaged Buddhism is the kind of Buddhism that responds to what is happening in the here and the now.  

We will begin our five session study and practice group by acquainting ourselves with Thich Nhat Hanh’s and Sr. Chan Khong’s practice of Engaged Buddhism in Vietnam during the 1960s and 70s. Then, with the help of additional guides, such as the Dalai Lama, Joanna Macy, and David Loy, we will explore how contemplative practices and social engagement complement and support each other. Throughout the class we will be looking deeply into our own engaged practice commitments and aspirations. Between sessions, participants will support each other in groups of 2-4 participants, meeting in person or virtually, at a time that is agreeable to the members of each group. 

The class will be facilitated by Mitchell Ratner, Still Water’s Senior Teacher. To ensure that there is a shared understanding of mindfulness practice in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh, we ask that participants have at least six months of experience with mindfulness meditation gained through regular participation at the Still Water MPC or at another practice center.

The recommended mindfulness practice commitment is daily sitting and walking meditation, along with other practices that nourish mindful attention throughout the day.

If you have questions about whether your preparation is appropriate, or other questions about the study and practice groups, please email Still Water at Info@StillWaterMPC.org, or call 301 270-8353.

The Deepening Our Practice Groups are offered in accord with the spirit of Dana. Participants are encouraged to make a donation to the Still Water MPC that accords with the promptings of their heart and their personal circumstances. The tax-deductible contributions are used to support the community and its projects. All donations are appreciated. The suggested donation range for this four-month study and practice group is $100 to $200. Please feel free to contribute less or more depending on your circumstances.